Association between physical fitness and musculoskeletal health in firefighters

Abstract

Introduction: Firefighters are often placed in situations that require high levels of physical exertion, leading to significant strain on firefighters’ musculoskeletal system, predisposing them to musculoskeletal discomfort (MSD) and/or musculoskeletal injury (MSI). Physical fitness programs are often recommended and justified, in part, to prevent injuries. The aim of this study was to determine the association between physical fitness and musculoskeletal health (MSH) in firefighters.Methods: A total of 308 full-time firefighters took part in the study conducted in Cape Town, South Africa. Physical fitness tests encompassed a non-exercise estimation for cardiorespiratory fitness, grip and leg strength for upper and lower body strength, push-ups and sit-ups for muscular endurance, and sit-and-reach for flexibility. The Nordic Musculoskeletal Questionnaire and Cornell Musculoskeletal Discomfort Questionnaire were used to determine MSIs and MSD, respectively. A p-value <0.05 indicated statistical significance.Results: Every one-unit increase in AbVO2max, push-ups, sit-ups, and sit-and-reach decreased the odds of firefighters reporting MSIs by 5% (p = 0.005), 3% (p = 0.017), 3% (p = 0.006), and 3% (p = 0.034), respectively. Every one repetition increase in push-up capacity increased the odds of firefighters reporting neck, elbow and forearm, wrist and hand, and thigh discomfort by 3% (p = 0.039), 4% (p = 0.031), 5% (p = 0.002), and 5%` (p = 0.007), respectively. Every one repetition increase in sit-up capacity increased the odds of firefighters reporting upper back discomfort and thigh discomfort by 5% (p = 0.045) and 7% (p = 0.013), respectively.Conclusion: Maintenance of physical fitness is likely beneficial in reducing MSIs, which, however, may increase the feeling of MSD in firefighters. In addition, it may be noticed that there is an ideal level of physical fitness that is conducive to the reduction of MSIs and should be studied further.

Physical fitness, cardiovascular and musculoskeletal health, and occupational performance in firefighters

“…While also ensuring that they are educated on the benefits of opting for healthier diets while on-or off-duty. In addition, implementing minimum requirements for cardiorespiratory fitness, and muscular strength and endurance are necessary to ensure that firefighters are physically capable of performing their duties (33,80). This will also help maintain good CVH in firefighters to ensure that they are not at risk for CVD-related events while on duty (4, 81).…”

“…In spite of the well-known intense physical requirements of firefighting, many firefighters do not maintain the appropriate levels of physical conditioning that are required for peak performance at work (29,31,32). However, studies have shown that firefighters, particularly in the CoCTFRS, that are overworked are predisposed to musculoskeletal injuries and musculoskeletal discomfort (30,33).…”

Age-Related Differences in Physical Fitness and Performance of an “Ability Test” among Firefighters

“…These activities increase physiological demands and maximal heart rates, potentially leading to cardiovascular strain [6]. Research affirms that for firefighters to manage those job stressors and reduce the possibility of musculoskeletal injuries, they should maintain high levels of cardiovascular health, muscular strength, and endurance [7,8]. Concurrently, research indicates that performance of occupational tasks is positively associated with abdominal strength, upper body endurance (as measured by push-ups), upper body strength (via one repetition of max bench press), and power (as assessed by a step test) [9,10].…”